-- The name on an airline ticket must match the passenger’s photo ID or passport exactly. Always use full legal names rather than nicknames when making reservations.
-- Most airline tickets are now electronic. Rarely will a traveler have a physical paper ticket. Boarding passes are obtained at the airport with the confirmation number supplied on the invoice.
-- Generally, airline tickets are non-refundable. Names cannot be changed. If a traveler changes plans, the reservations must be cancelled prior to the scheduled departure. The airline tickets are then valid for one year from the date of issue for the amount purchased. They can be reused on the same airline within that period. Most airlines charge a reissue fee of $100.00. The exception is Southwest, who charges no fee.
-- All adult passengers must present a government issued photo ID at the counter and again at the security checkpoint.
-- All passengers must also be prepared to have their carry on baggage and person scanned at the security checkpoint. Footwear, jackets, jewelry, cell phones, keys, and metal objects must be placed into a bin for screening before you step through the metal detector. Laptops and video cameras must be removed from their cases and screened individually. You can save time by putting all metal objects into your carry on ahead of time, and by wearing easily removable footwear.
-- Liquids and gels of any kind are prohibited in carry on baggage except in very limited amounts. 3 ounce containers that fit comfortably in a quart size clear Ziploc bag will be scanned and permitted. There is not a prohibition of liquids for checked baggage.
-- Prescription medications should be carried on in the original labeled containers.
-- Sharp objects, knives, scissors, and other metal objects are prohibited and will be confiscated by security personnel.
-- Any food or liquids that you purchase beyond the security checkpoint may be carried on to the plane.
-- The minimum age to rent a car is 25. The renter must present a valid drivers license and credit card at the counter.
-- Car insurance that covers you and your personal vehicle generally covers car rentals as well. It is wise to bring you insurance card. Often, car rental companies will try to sell additional insurance coverage. It is usually quite expensive.
-- Before driving away, check the rental vehicle for damages. If you find any, be sure to get something in writing indicating that you received the vehicle with damage. Otherwise you can be charged when you return the car.
-- Return your car with a full tank of gas. Car rental companies mark up the cost of gasoline and will add it to your bill.
-- A passport, for all travel outside the U.S. and identification purposes
-- Your Wallet and/or purse
-- Driver's License and/or other proper photo identification required for domestic travel
-- Insurance cards for both your medical and automobile insurance
-- Credit cards
-- Traveler's checks
-- Coupons
-- Airline, Cruise or Train tickets
-- Itinerary with confirmation numbers and addresses and phone numbers of where you'll be staying
-- Travel brochures and maps
-- Lots of crisp one-dollar bills for all those tipping opportunities
-- A small amount of local currency for immediate use to hold you over until you can make it to a currency exchange, if you're planning foreign travel
-- Leave your valuables at home in a safe place if possible
-- Do not carry valuables in your checked luggage, they will be safer in your carry-on bags
